Dutch King calls Russia to cooperate in MH17 investigation in UN speech

In his speech at the General Assembly of the United Nations, King Willem-Alexander called on Russia to cooperate in the investigation into the downing of flight MH17. "The relatives of the 298 victims expect justice and we will not rest until justice is done", the Dutch King said. King Willem-Alexander also spoke on climate change and LGBTQ rights in his speech. NOS reports.

The King called in unacceptable that "those responsible for international crimes avoid justice". The Netherlands remains committed to strengthening the International Criminal Court because it is an indispensable part of the international legal order, he said.

According to King Willem-Alexander, the fight against climate change needs international cooperation and it has never been so urgent to fight together for the future of our planet. "Greenhouse gasses know no borders. Only together can we cope with climate change. We are happy to heed the call to take responsibility and show ambition."

He also paid attention to the rights of LGBTQ people. "The Kingdom of the Netherlands is pleased that the equal right of gays, lesbians, transgender people and other minority groups are being laid down in the law in more and more places in the world. We hope that this development will continue, but in the end it is the practice that counts."

Support for the United Nations is under pressure, while close cooperation between states is of great importance for "everyone's freedom, security and prosperity", the King said. "The fight against poverty and inequality is best served by joining forces across borders. We need each other more than ever.